The proposed redevelopment of Ferrybank Shopping Centre has been given the green light after Waterford City and County Council withdrew its High Court challenge.
The local authority had sought a judicial review of Kilkenny County Council’s decision to grant planning permission for the long awaited redevelopment of the site, which has remained largely vacant since 2008.
However, the legal proceedings have now been withdrawn, allowing the development to move ahead.
The approved plans include a new Dunnes Stores as the main tenant, along with several additional retail units, restaurants and cafés, marking a significant step forward for the long delayed shopping centre.
The redevelopment has been the subject of considerable debate in recent months, with Waterford City and County Council raising concerns that the project could have an impact on retail activity in Waterford city centre.
Despite those concerns, Kilkenny County Council had defended its decision to grant planning permission for the development.
The withdrawal of the High Court proceedings removes the final legal obstacle, paving the way for work on the redevelopment to begin.
